Two New York Police Department (NYPD) detectives have been placed on modified duties after being allegedly linked to a disturbing crypto-related kidnapping and torture case in Manhattan.
Detectives Involved in Crypto Trader’s Ordeal
According to The New York Times, Detective Roberto Cordero, who works on Mayor Eric Adams’ security team, reportedly picked up the victim, Michael Carturan, from the airport and drove him to a Soho townhouse where he was later held captive.
Another officer, Detective Raymond J. Low, a narcotics investigator, allegedly provided off-duty security at the same location. Both officers are now under investigation by NYPD’s Internal Affairs Bureau.
“We are disturbed by these allegations,” said the Mayor’s office. “As soon as it came to our attention, the officers were placed on modified duty.”
Victim Targeted for $30M Crypto Fortune
Michael Valentino Teofrasto Carturan, a crypto investor reportedly worth $30 million, was kidnapped and tortured for 17 days. He escaped the five-story Manhattan townhouse on May 22 — the date his captors allegedly called his “death day.”
Police say John Woeltz, known as the “crypto king” of Kentucky, and William Duplessie, co-founder of Pangea Blockchain Fund, were behind the attack. They allegedly tried to force Carturan to reveal his crypto wallet recovery phrase.
Carturan was tied with electrical cords, electrocuted, and tortured with a chainsaw and taser during the ordeal.
Suspects Face Charges, Officers Under Scrutiny
- Woeltz was indicted on May 29; his bail request was denied.
- Duplessie is awaiting indictment.
Meanwhile, both NYPD officers face internal review:
- Cordero, a 20-year veteran, has 4 past civilian complaints, including abuse of authority and excessive force.
- Low has 9 complaints, including use of chokeholds, restricted breathing, and a false statement incident from 2023, still pending resolution.
NYPD rules prohibit officers from working private security without prior approval.
Crypto Crimes Trigger Deeper Police Scrutiny
This high-profile case raises serious questions about police misconduct, crypto-related crimes, and off-duty employment practices in law enforcement.
As investigations continue, public trust and crypto safety remain key concerns for New Yorkers and the broader digital finance community.